Philosophy
Little Ones’ theme-based curriculum promotes achievement by encouraging
exploration and experimentation within a play and social environment. Children
are encouraged to make choices and to problem solve on their own - skills
fundamental for future success.
Classrooms are designed to
encourage development through the careful placement of Learning Centers
- areas equipped and organized to stimulate socialization,
exploration and the development of specific skills.
Learning Center activities include the following:
- Block Area
- Manipulative Area
- Dramatic Play / Housekeeping Area
- Reading Corner
- Writing Area
- Art Area
- Sensory Table
The
curriculum at Little Ones exposes children to a variety of cultural experiences
that encourage the development of values such as respect for diversity, giving,
sharing and learning to be good friends. Children also hold small “jobs” in
class such as refreshment helpers, flag holders, door holder, line leader and
line
caboose.
Children
learn about responsibility and taking turns, how to recognize their names and
other children’s names by referring to the job board.
Little Ones has an extensive children’s library supplemented every month by fresh editions from the Northbrook Public Library. Books are available in each class so children can peruse at their leisure.
Special community helper visitors come to Little Ones during the year to teach children about their occupations as well as about safety, health and the outside world. The 3 & 4 year old programs are further enhanced by a music specialist who comes in twice a month.
Programs
| You And Me | |
| 18 through 36 months | This program offers a special opportunity for parent or caregiver and child to explore the classroom. Activities include: music and movement, songs, fingerplays, art activities, and stories. |
| Preschool | |
| 2 ½ years | This program promotes separation, socialization, independence and self-esteem. Activities include: facilitated play, creative art, songs and finger plays, stories, language development, snack and outdoor/indoor play. |
| 3 year olds | This program encourages learning and socialization in a group environment. Activities include: learning center time, creative art, music, circle time, math and science, literacy development, dramatic play, snack, and outdoor/indoor play. |
| 4 year olds | This program is filled with rich learning experiences designed
to ease the transition from preschool to kindergarten. Activities include: learning center time, creative art, circle time, music, math and science, literacy development, dramatic play, snack, and outdoor/indoor play. The 4-year-old curriculum focuses on developing the skills necessary for kindergarten. |
| Little Ones offers low child
to staff ratios. Little Ones recognizes and supports inclusion of children with special needs. Children at Little Ones do not need to be toilet trained. |
|
| Hot Lunch Enrichment Programs | |
Available to |
Activities include: |
Please check the schedule for times, days, and fees of all above programs.